2021 Michigan Energy (Residential) Code

The Construction Code - Part 10. Energy (Residential) Code rules were filed with the Secretary of State on May 1, 2025, and will become effective on August 29, 2025. The rules adopted by reference the 2021 edition of the International Uniform Energy Code, with amendments, deletions, and additions deemed appropriate for use in Michigan. 

 The bureau will notify the public when each code's electronic and hard copy versions are available for purchase and update the code book information on our website, which links to the ICC for purchase. Below are some important changes that have been made to the code.

•   One important change is Table R402.1.3, ceiling R- values have increased to R-60 for zones 5 through 7.

Please reply to this email with any questions and concerns about these changes.  As always, MIACCA remains focused on bringing our members the latest industry news while doing our due diligence to protect it.

In 2025, MIACCA Contractors and the HVAC industry will see a major shift towards net-zero emissions and energy efficiency, driven by stricter regulations and the increasing demand for sustainable solutions. This includes transitioning to lower-GWP refrigerants like R-454B and R-32, adopting geothermal heat pumps, and integrating solar-powered HVAC systems. Additionally, the industry will focus on smart technology and AI-powered automation to optimize system performance and reduce energy consumption. 

Key Trends and Impacts:

• Refrigerant Transition:

• The EPA's phasing down of HFCs, particularly R-410A, will mandate the use of alternative refrigerants with lower Global Warming Potential (GWP). 

• Energy Efficiency:

• The focus will be on improving the efficiency of existing HVAC systems and adopting more energy-efficient technologies like geothermal heat pumps. 

• Sustainable Practices:

• The industry will embrace sustainable practices like using renewable energy sources, optimizing building design, and promoting smart home technologies. 

• Smart Technology and Automation:

• AI and automation will play a key role in optimizing system performance, reducing energy consumption, and improving indoor comfort. 

• Industry Growth and Change:

• The HVAC industry is expected to continue growing, with a focus on sustainability and energy efficiency, creating new opportunities for professionals. 

For Consumers:

• Refrigerant Changes:

• If you are planning to replace an HVAC system, be aware of the new refrigerant standards and consider options that use low-GWP refrigerants. 

• Energy Efficiency:

• Invest in energy-efficient HVAC systems and consider smart home technologies to optimize energy consumption and reduce your carbon footprint. 

• Professional Advice:

• Consult with a qualified HVAC professional to understand the changes and choose the best solutions for your needs.

MIACCA has attached is it's IRA latest success in providing our members with the qualified product list that we obtained through the field operations manager of MIHER below.  We have been diligent in relaying in this matter and will continue to do so, on your behalf.

Here it is:  Qualified Product List Air-to-Air Heat Pump for MIHER Rebate

Dear MIACCA:

Attached is the qualified product list. We are working on getting this up onto the contractor portal for you all to have access to.  It is not something that is believed to be needed facing the customer/homeowner side of things, as they aren't typically going to be experts in their field to understand the finer details of energy star certifications, SEER ratings, AFUE, and the like.

If you do have a customer who is concerned that they might not get equipment in their home that qualifies, you can share this with them if needed and discuss the way the program works to prevent that from being the case (we do require model numbers for any submission and check against these lists, get geotagged photos to confirm that is what is installed IS what is installed, and even do on site QC checks of the work done to ensure it hits program/customer standards.) 

Hopefully this helps!

Aaron Welsh

Field Operations Manager: MiHER

MIACCA Submitted the following comments to the BCC: 

Part 9a Mechanical Rules-MIACCA Comments.pdf

The Bureau of Construction Codes (BCC) is currently seeking public input on the 205-7 LR Part 9A Mechanical Code rules.  For your convenience, a Proposal Rule/Code Change Request form and the Draft Strike-Bold Rules. The current Part 9A Mechanical Code rule set can be reviewed under the LARA Administrative Rules webpage Currently Open Rules. Proposals for this rule set must be submitted to LARA-BCC-Rules@michigan.gov by 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 9, 2025.

MIACCA will keep you posted on these changes.

The Bureau of Construction Codes has reposted for a vacancy of a Mechanical Inspector E11 position in the Mechanical Section. The official workstation for this position will be located in the easter region of the Upper Peninsula. Applicants for the position must apply online by going to the website listed below, the job posting number is 6401-24-BCC-038 MechanicalInsp. The link below is a direct connection to the posting.  Once there, click on the "Apply" link, and follow the directions provided.  (Position description and job specifications are listed on the posting.)

 On-Line applications must be received by 5:00pm, 01/24/2025.

If you have any questions or need additional information regarding this vacancy, please contact:

Hillary Millen
Senior Personnel and Agency Administration Liaison
Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs
Bureau of Construction Codes
Phone: (517) 582-5594

Visit MIACCA's New Inflation Reduction Act/MI Home Rebate Programs Resource Page

For your convenience, MIACCA has put a new IRA MIHER Resource Page, where you can easily access valuable information to assist you with qualifying rebates, applying to become a MIHER Contractor, and calculator tools to find out median income averages across the state, along with home energy incentives.  As we continue sharing the latest IRA news, please bookmark this page for easy access to essential links.  We will update it it with all relevant links to help you navigate through your rebates. 

Visit our New IRA MIHER Resources Page Here.

If you have additional resources you would like MIACCA to add, or would like to share your experiences working with the Home Rebate Programs, please send the link to Executive Director M.J. D'Smith at mjdsmith@miacca.org. 

In 2025, the HVAC industry will transition to new refrigerants with lower global warming potential (GWP) than the current standard, R-410A. Key refrigerants expected to replace R-410A include R-454B and R-32. This shift is driven by environmental regulations aimed at reducing the impact of refrigerants on the climate. 

Key Changes in 2025: 

• Phase-out of R-410A:

  Manufacturers will no longer be able to produce or import equipment using refrigerants with a GWP of 700 or greater, including R-410A. 

• Transition to A2L Refrigerants:

  New air conditioning and heat pump systems will need to use refrigerants classified as A2L, which have a lower flammability rating and are more environmentally friendly. 

• New Efficiency Standards:

  In addition to refrigerant changes, HVAC systems will also need to meet stricter energy efficiency standards. 

• Impact on Manufacturers and Technicians:

  Manufacturers will need to adjust their production lines and ensure their technicians are trained on the new refrigerants and handling procedures. 

• Potential Price Increases:

  The transition to new refrigerants and stricter efficiency standards may lead to increased costs for new HVAC systems. 

Specific Refrigerants:

• R-454B:

  This is a blend of R-32 (a hydrofluorocarbon, or HFC) and R-1234yf (a hydrofluoroolefin, or HFO). 

• R-32:

  It's a single-component refrigerant that is considered a lower-GWP alternative to R-410A. 

Important Considerations for Homeowners:

• Compliance:

  Homeowners should be aware of the new refrigerant regulations and ensure that any new HVAC systems they purchase are compliant. 

• Efficiency:

  When upgrading or replacing their HVAC systems, homeowners should consider the new efficiency standards and choose systems that meet or exceed the minimum requirements. 

• Cost:

  The transition to new refrigerants and stricter efficiency standards may lead to increased costs, so it's important to budget accordingly. 

• Safety:

  While new A2L refrigerants are generally considered safer than older refrigerants, it's important to ensure that all HVAC systems are installed and maintained by qualified technicians.